One of the main arguments made in opposition to automation software is that it is bad for the job market, with those who follow these ideas stating that workers will inevitably be replaced by these solutions. Now, it would be completely erroneous to say that this is an outright false sentiment, but it is safe to say that business leaders who view automation software in this lens are going about technology provisioning in a relatively one-dimensional and short-sighted fashion.
In many situations, especially those in a traditional office environment, automation will be a far better tool when used to support an employee rather than replace one. Sure, there will be times in which automation can and will be used to cut back on hours, but even then this could lead to increased productivity, demand and then more job opportunities. So, it is important to look at automation's place in the business through a more 360-degree perspective.
Will automation not hurt jobs?
The Boston Herald recently reported that some experts are beginning to argue that automation will in no way reduce the amount of factory workers in the coming 10 years, which would be one of the bigger statements in this conversation given industrial entities' heavy use of robotics. According to the news provider, the Boston Consulting Group released a study that found automation will indeed improve the efficiency and profitability of manufacturing businesses, but will not inherently reduce staff sizes.
"While robotics will displace a bunch of workers today, it's going to create opportunities for new types of jobs," BCG's Justin Rose told the source. "There's a whole set of tasks that come along with plugging these types of robotics into your production system.
The Boston Herald pointed out that increased demand for programmers and engineers will be likely in the coming years, meaning job growth might be stimulated, rather than hindered, by automation's spread.
What about other industries?
Although manufacturing presents one of the better examples of automation's impact on a business, every company leader, regardless of industry, should recognize the merits of the software when used to support employees and operations. Be leveraging these tools to eliminate data entry, streamline business process management and improve workflow strategies, companies can strengthen employee engagement, enjoy higher levels of productivity and much more.
